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Before implementing any stimulation with the electronic collar,
your dog must know some very basic obedience commands. A dog learns
by first being shown a command, followed by lots of repetition over
an extended period of time. As the dog becomes proficient with these
commands, the trainer can introduce distractions and different locations
to strengthen the dog. Then, throw in the correct amount of positive
and negative reinforcement and you should end up with a well- mannered
dog.
Obedience Training On the Leash
Your dog must fully understand the obedience commands (sit,
stay, here, heel, and kennel) before using the e-collar for reinforcement
of these commands. A metal training collar also know as the choke
chain or pinch collar may be used to implement the negative reinforcement
on the leash. A sharp jerk with the chain and leash reinforces the
command such as SIT, STAY, HERE, HEEL, OR KENNEL. When the dog compiles
with the command, use praise also known as positive reinforcement.
Beginning Electric Collar Training
When you feel your dog understands the obedience commands on the
leash we can now start with the electric collar training. With the
dog on the leash wearing the electric collar continue with your
obedience drills. Light stimulation (nick or constant) is going
to be applied as a command is given, the stimulation is removed
as the dog compiles. Through repetition, a dog learns to turn off
the stimulation by performing the command. Electric collar training
is another form of negative reinforcement similar to the leash and
metal collar training. When the dog compiles with the command, we
use praise/positive reinforcement. The final step is the avoidance
phase in which the dog learns that he can avoid the stimulation
altogether by performing your commands. When these training procedures
are complete, the electric collar is used as a reminder when the
dog does not comply with your commands at home or in the field.
Keep you initial training sessions short and positive. Dogs have
a short attention span, especially young dogs.
How much Stimulation To use
Always start with low levels of stimulation and work your way up
depending on the personality of your dog and any given situation.
By using only enough stimulation to get your point across, you will
have a more controllable environment and a dog that is under less
stress. Animals (and humans) perform better in a less stressful
environment.
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